PRESS RELEASE

N° 11/10

IAHCR STRESSES DUTY TO RESPECT HUMAN RIGHTS DURING THE EMERGENCY IN HAITI

Washington, D.C., February 2, 2010 - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has been following closely the emergency situation faced by the people in Haiti following the recent disasters, which have caused great suffering in that country and which affect the fulfillment of the most basic needs. The IACHR places itself at the disposal of the Haitian authorities and the international community to collaborate, within the framework of its mandate, with the various initiatives displayed with a view to overcome the critical situation lived by the population of Haiti.

In this context, the IACHR reminds the Haitian government, the international community, the non-governmental organizations and the many volunteers on the ground, of the importance of respecting international human rights obligations in all circumstances, in particular non-derogable rights and the rights of those most vulnerable. Likewise, in light of information received concerning the conduct of private security forces, the Inter-American Commission calls for the Haitian government and the international community to enhance efforts to control the conduct of these forces and ensure that human rights are respected at all time. Information available to the IACHR indicates that many children have been separated from their parents or families as a consequence of the disaster, and also at risk of suffering disease, serious emotional distress, trafficking and sexual exploitation. The IACHR emphasizes on the importance of focusing on family reunification.

The IACHR takes this opportunity to re-convey its sincere condolences to the family members of the Haitian women, men, and children who have died, as well as to the relatives of members of international organizations and forces who lost their lives while working in support of development and peace in that country.

A principal, autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS), the IACHR derives its mandate from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Commission is composed of seven independent members who act in a personal capacity, without representing a particular country, and who are elected by the OAS General Assembly.
 

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Press contact: María Isabel Rivero
Tel. (202) 458-3867
E-mail: mrivero@oas.org

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